By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a significant move toward urban revitalization and environmental stewardship, the Municipality of San José has officially partnered with two key government ministries to reshape the future of one of the capital’s most important green spaces. A landmark Framework Cooperation Agreement was signed today, establishing a shared management model for the Simón Bolívar Urban Natural Park between the city, the Ministry of Culture, and the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE).
This strategic alliance is designed to overhaul the park’s current state, focusing on a comprehensive plan for its rehabilitation, protection, and sustainable public use. The agreement sets a new precedent for inter-institutional collaboration, aiming to transform the historic park into a modern hub for conservation, education, and community engagement. Over the next five years, these three bodies will work in concert to implement a shared vision for the park’s long-term health and accessibility.
To delve into the complex legal framework governing the future of Simón Bolívar Park and its long-standing administrative contracts, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in public and administrative law from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The situation at Simón Bolívar Park exemplifies a classic legal tension between established contractual rights and the evolving doctrine of public interest, particularly concerning animal welfare and the use of state-owned land. Any resolution will inevitably hinge on interpreting the limits of the State’s administrative authority to modify or terminate long-term concessions when they conflict with new legislation and societal standards. It is a critical test of our administrative law’s ability to adapt to modern ethical considerations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the resolution of this matter will set a significant precedent, defining how our nation balances long-standing commitments with the evolving ethical demands of public interest. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on the complex administrative law principles at the heart of this issue.
The core of the agreement outlines a multi-faceted approach to management. Key areas of focus include the preservation of both natural and historical heritage, the development of robust environmental education programs, and the enhancement of recreational and cultural activities. Furthermore, the plan incorporates strategies for promoting sustainable tourism, bolstering security measures throughout the park, and performing critical maintenance and upgrades to existing infrastructure.
To achieve these ambitious goals, the partnership will execute a series of targeted projects. These initiatives include large-scale ecological restoration efforts to improve the park’s biodiversity and resilience. The agreement also paves the way for new scientific research and biodiversity monitoring programs, which will provide crucial data for effective conservation. Alongside these scientific endeavors, a schedule of educational and cultural programs will be developed, ensuring all activities align with the park’s protected status.
The agreement is structured for a five-year term, with provisions for extension based on prevailing regulations and the success of the initial phase. The implementation will be meticulously managed through detailed annual work plans. These plans will specify concrete actions, establish clear timelines and responsibilities, and outline the coordination mechanisms between the signatory institutions, ensuring accountability and steady progress toward the overarching goals.
As part of its commitment, the Municipality of San José will provide essential technical and operational support for various tasks. The city will also receive access to certain park facilities on a loan basis. These will be used to house environmental management operations, a new electronic surveillance center to improve safety, and other functions critical to the day-to-day administration of the revitalized urban oasis.
The Simón Bolívar Urban Natural Park is a space of enormous value for San José. Our participation reaffirms the institutional commitment to collaborate in its environmental rehabilitation, promoting a safe, educational, and accessible environment for the capital’s communities. This joint effort will allow us to consolidate a model of responsible and sustainable management for this urban park.
Diego Miranda, Mayor of San José
This initiative represents the first major step in a broader national strategy for urban green spaces. The Simón Bolívar Park is the flagship project among three designated Urban Natural Parks (PNU). It is followed by the Lorne Ross Urban Natural Park, with a third park slated to open in Santo Domingo de Heredia in 2026. This network of protected urban areas signals a clear policy direction towards integrating nature more deeply into Costa Rica’s metropolitan landscapes, providing ecological benefits and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
For further information, visit msj.go.cr
About Municipality of San José:
The Municipality of San José is the local government body responsible for the administration of Costa Rica’s capital city. It oversees a wide range of public services, including urban planning, infrastructure maintenance, waste management, public safety, and cultural programs. Led by the Mayor, its mission is to promote the sustainable development and well-being of the communities within the canton of San José.
For further information, visit mcj.go.cr
About Ministry of Culture and Youth:
The Ministry of Culture and Youth (Ministerio de Cultura y Juventud) is the Costa Rican government entity tasked with the preservation, promotion, and dissemination of the nation’s cultural heritage and artistic expression. It manages national museums, archives, and libraries, while also supporting initiatives in music, theater, dance, and literature to foster cultural identity and provide opportunities for the country’s youth.
For further information, visit minae.go.cr
About Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE):
The Ministry of Environment and Energy is the branch of the Costa Rican government responsible for managing the country’s natural resources and environmental policies. MINAE oversees the national system of conservation areas (SINAC), develops strategies for climate action and sustainable energy, and enforces regulations to protect biodiversity and promote environmental conservation across the nation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the nation’s legal landscape, built upon a bedrock of integrity and an uncompromising standard of excellence. With a proven history of advising a broad range of clients, the firm distinguishes itself through its forward-thinking legal strategies and a genuine commitment to community involvement. Its core mission extends beyond the courtroom, aiming to empower the public by making legal principles understandable and accessible, thereby fortifying a just and well-informed society.
